Return to Health is a Seniors Serving Seniors/Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA) partnership program.

Seniors Serving Seniors recruits, trains, and provides volunteers to support seniors to achieve and maintain their dignity, self-worth, and independence before, during and after a hospital stay.  To help VIHA clients feel less alone volunteers provide personal contact and other supportive activities.

The program is offered without charge. Referrals can be faxed to 250-391-0895 or phone 250-216-6878.

Return to Health Volunteers receive specialized training in seniors’ issues, stressing good communication skills and familiarity with the aging process. The initial 21 hours of training is given each Fall. In addition to this, volunteers receive on going support, at monthly meetings. The purpose of these meetings is further education, updates on current events and a connection to other volunteers.

For more information or to register as a volunteer call Seniors Serving Seniors – 250-382-4331.

An average of 250 clients are supported each year.

Funding for this program has been received from the Vancouver Island Health Authority, Victoria Foundation, Belsonia and Frank Paul Foundation, Coastal Capital Savings Foundation, Telus and Needs of Victoria Society.